Students do yoga at the Campus Recreation Center

The Campus Recreation Complex (CRC) brings back group fitness classes during winter break for the second year in a row to combat holiday calories and stress while appealing to a variety of goals and interests.

This year, the CRC elected to have three weeks of classes instead of two; classes will run up to the week that spring GIT FIT classes begin eliminating the gap between semesters. After a break, returning to a regular work out schedule oftentimes proves difficult. The gap elimination will allow hard-working participants to begin spring classes strong and prepared for new challenges.

Classes offered this year are meant to target the inevitable extra calories and stress associated with the holiday season, and appeal to a variety of different goals and interests. With Tread Fit, participants enjoy a high-end cardiorespiratory workout. Boot Camp is a resistance workout that keeps injuries at bay and increases the number of calories burned after class. Additionally, these high intensity classes are balanced by the restorative nature of yoga.

One of the many instructors leading classes this week, Becky James, is a certified personal trainer and RRCA certified running coach. She has been a fitness instructor at the Georgia Institute of Technology for six years, and she explained the benefit of hosting yoga at the end of each week.

“There is no better way to reward your body than by stretching, strengthening, and taking a moment to re-center,” she said.

The schedule also includes a preview of James’ new favorite class “Hills, Stairs and Strength.” This class is normally held outside, but will be held indoors through the Winter. It offers the best of Tread Fit with the added benefit of a resistance work out.

Although they are challenging, everyone is welcome in GIT FIT classes. Modifications are offered by instructors, which allows someone who is new or returning to fitness to safely progress and gain confidence. The smaller class sizes during winter break provide instructors with more coaching opportunities with new students.

James said that although she believes people should take classes all year long, winter break is an ideal time for people to start. The smaller class sizes allow participants to establish a relationship with the instructor which is beneficial in a few ways.

“That relationship will provide you with accountability and will help you to take a group fitness class and tailor it to your fitness level and goals,” she said.

Whether you are interested in discovering a new fitness routine, or looking to stay active during the holidays, winter break classes are a wonderful option for everyone. Passes for the winter break schedule are available for $15 at the Member Services desk in the CRC. Classes run Monday, Dec. 19, 2016 through Friday Jan. 13, 2017. For more information visit www.crc.gatech.edu.

Georgia Tech's Campus Recreation Center indoor running track